Va. health chief resigns over new abortion clinic rules

Oct. 18, 2012
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Karen Remley, who resigned Thursday as Virginia's health commissioner, was appointed by former governor Timothy Kaine, a Democrat, and retained by his successor, Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican. / Virginia Department of Health

by Michael Winter, USA TODAY

by Michael Winter, USA TODAY

Virginia's health commissioner resigned Thursday afternoon because of recently passed state rules that regulate abortion clinics in the same way as new hospitals.

In her resignation letter to colleagues, Karen Remley wrote that "how specific sections of the Virginia Code pertaining to the development and enforcement of these regulations have been and continue to be interpreted has created an environment in which my ability to fulfill my duties is compromised and in good faith I can no longer serve in my role," the Richmond Times-Dispatch reports.

On Sept. 14, the state Board of Health adopted the stricter safety and architectural regulations, reversing its June vote to exempt clinics. Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli had refused to certify the regulations because of the exemption, and he warned board members they might lose legal representation if they defied his advice.

Abortion-rights advocates assailed the new rules, saying the additional construction costs would force many clinics to close. Abortion opponents argued that the new regulations would increase oversight, the Christian Post noted.

Cuccinelli certified the new rules Sept. 26, saying in a letter to Remley that they "are constitutional and do not conflict with existing federal or state laws or regulations."

Remley was appointed by former governor Timothy Kaine, a Democrat, and retained by his successor, Gov. Bob McDonnell, a Republican.

"I greatly appreciate Dr. Remley's tremendous public service over the past four years," he said Thursday. "As commissioner, she served two governors from two different parties, and all the citizens of Virginia, with constant professionalism, intellect and dedication."